Thank you nightshade08 and to all others for the reviews, follows, and favorites. It means so much! I hope everyone enjoys this chapter. Sorry if it's a bit short. I'm writing them as I go.
Happy Reading!
A week has passed and Cassim arrived just two days ago. He was welcomed with open arms from everyone. My father surprised us all by pardoning him, making Aladdin very happy. Who knew that an unborn child could make grown men put their differences aside and to let the past stay in the past. I'm thankful Father made the effort. He said he just couldn't let his grandchild live with the knowledge of knowing he or she had another grandparent that couldn't visit because of a mistake. And he's right. I know it would kill Aladdin inside if his son or daughter wasn't able to enjoy the presence of both grandfathers. I only hope that Cassim's views on living in Agrabah permanently will change once this baby is born.
Speaking of the baby, Aladdin and I have talked about names for our little one. We agreed that if this baby be a boy, we will name him Ali. The name means so much to Aladdin and I. The only setback to picking out names is finding a suitable one for a girl. I've tried to convince Aladdin that we may have a little princess but he swears that we'll have another prince ruling the kingdom. Trust me when I say that I wasn't too pleased with that response. These hormones mixed with my fiery spirit make for a very upset pregnant princess. We, of course, fought over it and I stormed out of our chambers. I wasn't shocked that he didn't run after me. He knew he was in the wrong and that I was overreacting. In the end, we both apologized and I cried. I hate these hormones! I believe they're ruining my life and running it. I have to remind myself that it's all for the better and that I'll one day see my precious angel.
It amazes me how fast the days can go by. I'm now at 17 weeks and starting to crave the strangest foods. Everyone stares at me like I'm crazy when I ask for something new each meal. I have to remind them constantly that it's for the baby's sake and mine as well. I'm sure it'll change once the pregnancy is over. Hopefully, everything will change! My body, as of right now, is the only thing that's changing. I'm having new outfits and dresses being made since my old clothes aren't able to fit. Each morning is a challenge trying to fit into clothes; from the top not fitting correctly to the waist cutting into my stomach. Luckily, I asked for dresses to be made that will expand as my belly grows. I'd much rather wear bigger clothes than too small. Comfort is a key to my much needed happiness as a pregnant woman.
I've just woken from a long and peaceful rest when I notice an arm around my waist. I look over to see my adoring husband asleep beside me. I reach over and brush his black curls out of his eyes. I see the tiredness from working so hard with my father. If I didn't know any better, I would think he stays up to watch me while I sleep. He's so fascinated by my being pregnant. I love waking up some nights to him talking to my stomach. It warms my heart greatly. I move my hand from his hair to his cheek and caress it lovingly. The movememt doesn't wake him and I'm relieved. He needs to sleep even if it's for an afternoon. While I let him sleep, I slip out of bed and silently pad over to my vanity. I quickly straighten my hair before walking out of our chambers. I leave Aladdin to sleep peacefully and go in search of Rajah. I haven't spent much of my time with him. I feel as if I've left him out of my life. He must miss me and our time together. He is my best friend after all. Well, one of them. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if he hates me for my ignoring him these past few weeks. I have so much more to worry about now that I'm pregnant; so many things to plan.
While in search of Rajah, I run into Genie. He must be looking for Aladdin.
"Jas, have you seen Al? I've been looking for him all afternoon." Genie looks worried. He knows just as well as I do that worrying over Aladdin has always been a priority in our lives. The man faced too much in his young life and all dangerous leaving his loved ones home to worry or to see it first hand.
"Genie, he's fine. He's asleep in our room. It's best that he rest. Father has been working him past hours this week and with Cassim being here amd Aladdin trying to spend time with him has him worn. I hate seeing him like that so I left him to sleep a while." I reassure my blue friend and I see the worry fall from his always happy face. He wipes his brow and smiles.
"What a relief! Can't have the new daddy running off, can we Jas?"
"No, we can't! I need him every step of the way." I find myself rubbing my hands over my slight bump while thinking of my husband. Genie takes notice and smiles once more. He has seen so much all these years and I believe he welcomes the joy of having a baby around him. Especially his best friend's baby.
Genie and I talk a little longer before we part ways in search of our best friends. I spot Rajah lounging by the fountain seemingly basking in the sunlight. I miss those days. We didn't have a care in the world until some stuffed shirt suitor stepped foot through the door. I don't miss them at all! I couldn't imagine being married to any of them nor having their child. I near the fountain and sit on the edge. I rake my fingers through Rajah's fur and he purrs. How I've missed my friend. I wonder how he'll react when I have the baby. Will he accept my child or turn away? I don't know if I'll be able to control my emotions if he turns away. I slip down to his level and look him in the eye. For a moment, realization passes between us and an unspoken answer is given. My furry friend will be with me always, no matter what. With a lick to my face, I hug him.
I stated that the couple were having trouble with girl names so I'm letting my readers help them. One condition though, they must be related to the Arabian style of which the movie is based. Oh and I'm looking for betas for my stories so if anyone can recommend someone, I would be most appreciative.